Starting this summer backcountry permits will no longer be free. Beginning summer 2014, backcountry campers will be charged a $25 fee for each walk-in permit. Climbers planning an overnight stay in the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park are required to have a backcountry permit which can be obtained at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station or the Craig Thomas Discovery Visitor Center.

Beginning Friday, May 2nd, an area including
Baxter’s Pinnacle and its southwest descent gully will be closed due to an
active peregrine falcon nest.

In 2011, a peregrine falcon pair
established a new nest near Baxter’s Pinnacle; this is the fourth year in a row
that a closure will be levied to protect both climbers and falcons. As the
peregrines reclaim this previous nest area, it is an especially critical time
for them; therefore, it is important that climbers comply with the posted public
closure.

Peregrines are territorial and aggressive birds especially while
nesting and incubating eggs; they become even more protective after their chicks
hatch. This area is predicted to remain closed
until mid-August when the young birds have fledged or biologists
determine there is no longer a risk to either climbers or the falcons.

The peregrine falcon is among the world’s
fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while
defending territory or striking prey. This poses a safety risk to climbers who
could be knocked off the route and injured.

Backcountry camping permits are required
year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National
Park. Climbers
and hikers can obtain backcountry camping permits at the Craig Thomas
Discovery & Visitor Center. Detailed information can be found in the links
on the right.

Safety Notice

Climbing and mountaineering are inherently dangerous pursuits. This website is not a substitute for good judgment. Route conditions and photos will be updated whenever possible, but ulimately the responsibility rests with you and your partners while in the Tetons. Please stop in and see us at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station when you're in town, or give us a call at 307.739.3343, 8-5pm MST during the peak of the summer.